Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by RI Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Rhode Island, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Business Regulation • State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$112,250 median (13% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the RI Department of Business Regulation~State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers.
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of 112,250, Civil Engineers in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of 99590. Rhode Island ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$112,250Hourly estimate
$53.9713% above national median
Difference: +$12,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Civil Engineer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | 107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | 105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $112,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $104,450 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $101,800 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
RI Department of Business Regulation • State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers
560 Jefferson Blvd, First Floor, Warwick, RI, 02886
Phone: 4018895488
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $100,880 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $51,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in Rhode Island?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What education do you need to become a Civil Engineer in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Civil Engineer licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island is 112,250. Salaries range from 76090 (10th percentile) to 165610 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Rhode Island earn 13% above the national median of 99590, with a state median of 112,250.
How many Civil Engineers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1200 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Rhode Island from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Business Regulation / State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. Review agency details at https://bdp.ri.gov/professional-engineers.